Umm Al-Qura University promotes Sheikh Maher Al-Muaiqily to professor rank
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Makkah, Saudi Arabia: Umm Al-Qura University has promoted Sheikh Dr Maher bin Hamad bin Muaiqil Al-Muaiqily Al-Balawi, Imam and Khateeb of the Grand Mosque (Al-Masjid Al-Haram) in Makkah, to the academic rank of professor in the field of Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh).
The promotion was announced by the College of Judicial Studies and Regulations following a decision by the president of Umm Al-Qura University, recognising Sheikh Al-Muaiqily’s contributions to Islamic scholarship, university education, and research in judicial studies.
The college congratulated Sheikh Al-Muaiqily on the achievement and prayed for continued success, guidance, and blessings in his academic and religious service.
Bridging Scholarship and Religious Leadership
Sheikh Professor Dr Maher Al-Muaiqily is widely recognised as one of the leading contemporary Islamic scholars and Quran reciters. His career reflects a unique combination of academic excellence, religious leadership, and commitment to the teaching and preservation of Islamic knowledge.
Alongside his role as one of the Imams of the Grand Mosque in Makkah, he has built an accomplished academic career at Umm Al-Qura University, where he has contributed to the study of Islamic jurisprudence and judicial sciences.
Academic Journey at Umm Al-Qura University
Sheikh Al-Muaiqily’s academic journey began after his early education and professional experience as a teacher. Having memorized the Holy Quran, he studied at the Teachers’ College in Madinah, graduating as a mathematics teacher.
He later moved to Makkah, where he worked as a mathematics teacher before becoming a student counsellor at Prince Abdul Majeed School.
Driven by a desire to deepen his Islamic scholarship, he pursued advanced studies at Umm Al-Qura University. He obtained a Master’s degree in Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh) from the College of Sharia in 1425 AH (2004 CE).
He later pursued a doctorate in Tafsir (Quranic Exegesis) in 1432 AH (2011 CE) from the same university. In 1434 AH (2012 CE), he completed a second doctorate in Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh) with distinction.
Contribution to Islamic Jurisprudence and Research
Throughout his academic career, Sheikh Al-Muaiqily has focused on Islamic jurisprudence, judicial studies, and Quranic sciences.
He joined the College of Judicial Studies and Regulations at Umm Al-Qura University as a faculty member in the Department of Judicial Studies, where he taught and supervised research in Islamic law and related disciplines.
He also served as Vice Dean for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, contributing to postgraduate education, academic development, and research activities within the college.
His scholarly contributions include a study of the jurisprudential opinions of Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal as narrated by Abdulmalik Al-Maimuni, as well as a critical editorial study of the classical Islamic legal work Tuhfat al-Nabih fi Sharh al-Tanbih, focusing on issues relating to Hudood (Islamic penal laws) and the judiciary.
Distinguished Service as Imam of the Grand Mosque
Beyond academia, Sheikh Al-Muaiqily has achieved global recognition as a Quran reciter and religious leader.
He began his public religious service as imam and khateeb of Al-Saadi Mosque in Makkah before later leading Ramadan prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque (Al-Masjid An-Nabawi) in Madinah during 1426 AH and 1427 AH.
In Ramadan 1428 AH (2007 CE), he was invited to lead Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers at the Grand Mosque in Makkah. Later that year, he was officially appointed as one of the Imams of Al-Masjid Al-Haram, a position he continues to hold.
Through his recitation, sermons, and religious guidance, Sheikh Al-Muaiqily has become one of the most recognisable voices associated with the Grand Mosque, reaching millions of Muslims worldwide through broadcasts and digital platforms.
Delivering the 2024 Arafah Sermon
The recognition of Sheikh Al-Muaiqily’s scholarship and religious standing was further highlighted in 2024, when he was selected to deliver the Arafah Sermon at Namirah Mosque during the Hajj pilgrimage.
The Arafah Sermon is among the most significant annual religious addresses in Islam, delivered before pilgrims gathered on the Plain of Arafat and broadcast globally to millions of Muslims.
A Milestone in a Distinguished Career
The promotion of Sheikh Professor Dr. Maher Al-Muaiqily represents another milestone in a career defined by scholarship, teaching, Quranic service, and religious leadership.
From his early years as a mathematics teacher to his current roles as a university professor and Imam of Islam’s holiest mosque, Sheikh Al-Muaiqily’s journey reflects a lifelong dedication to education, Islamic jurisprudence, and service to the Muslim community.
His elevation to the rank of Professor further recognises his contribution to the advancement of Islamic knowledge and strengthens his legacy as one of the leading scholars and Quranic voices of the contemporary era.
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